Overview

• A peer-reviewed study published Sept. 11 in Ecology details excavations of 12 bearded vulture nests in Andalusia conducted between 2008 and 2014.
• Researchers cataloged 2,483 items, including 2,117 bone fragments, with more than 9% of the assemblage made up of human-origin materials such as esparto-fiber goods, leather, hair, and textiles.
• Radiocarbon dating places a complete esparto sandal at roughly 750 years old, corresponding to the late 13th century.
• The species has been absent from southern Spain for over 70 years, and eggshell and bone remains provide data for diet, contaminant exposure, and potential recovery planning.
• The University of Granada describes the deposits as natural museums, and coverage notes modern birds often incorporate contemporary debris like plastics into nests.